Illinois corn and soybean crops remain ahead of schedule and in good shape as the start of summer approaches.

A weekly update Tuesday from the National Agricultural Statistics Service in Springfield found 76 percent of the corn crop and 72 percent of soybeans in good to excellent condition. Corn planting has been completed, while 94 percent of soybeans have been planted compared with the five-year average of 89 percent.

Heavy rains have been a problem in some regions. The Illinois State Water Survey in Champaign reports rainfall totals of 3-8 inches in some parts of the state in the first two weeks of June. The heaviest amounts were in west-central and east-central Illinois.

After a late start, expectations have improved for both corn and soybean yields, according to an analysis released this week by the University of Illinois.

Three-quarters of corn and soybeans in major producing states of the Midwest were rated in good to excellent condition as of June 8. Conditions are similar to the record years of 2004 and 2009, with ample rain and below-normal temperatures.

“The critical part of the growing season for corn and soybeans is still to come,” U of I farm economist Darrel Good said in the report. “While it is too early to be confident of U.S. corn and soybean yield potential, the markets are clearly anticipating very large crops, particularly for corn.”

Good the yield expectations likely would hold down price if current trends continue. Flooding also remains a threat in some parts of the Midwest.